After leaving Romania, we enjoyed a day in Belgrade, reunited with a new friend in Zagreb, and coasted north to Munich, stopping in Ljubljana and Salzburg. We arrived to Munich just in time to hang out with Michelle and explore her new neighborhood.
A major highlight of this chapter of our trip was to be hosted by Marko. Marko is an amazing guy we met rather randomly in Paklenica, and he welcomed us into his home. Together, we explored Zagreb and talked about climbing/caving, philosophy, politics, and even nutrition! I was really inspired by the Zagreb HQ of his mountain rescue club / spelunking club and hope to emulate it back home in the future. Also, his friend Luka came to have a late lunch with us. We look forward to hosting them in the states someday :).
Otherwise, we walked around the wide open public park within and surrounding the old Belgrade Fortress. We explored the cute, trendy center of Ljubljana. Afterwards, we drove around the picturesque lakes Bled and Bohinj. We got a peek at the Austrian alps on the way to Salzburg, and walked the city in the evening.
Finally, we arrived to Munich to meet Michelle at her new home. We were able to catch up (also on some much needed sleep!) and help warm up the aparment. We love you, Michelle!!
After almost two months on the Balkan peninsula, we’re back in “western Europe.” This was a truly eye-opening time for us. We learned so much about the region and ourselves, and it’s truly a journey we won’t forget.
Yay, I love you both too! You made Munich home for me so much faster by visiting and exploring with me!! (The cats thank you too, haha)